03 December, 2013

Holiday Gift Guide

 With Christmas less than a month away, and  holiday shopping still to be done, it's the perfect time for a guide on holiday gift ideas. Shopping for yourself, or for someone else can be quite daunting, so here are some of my ideas for both, higher, and lower budgets.

 

 For Everyone




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Gloves. A great accessory everyone needs when the temperature starts to drop. Invest in a classic leather pair with cashmere lining, such as the Portolano Leather Cashmere Gloves. Stay stylish, while your hands stay warm; it's a win-win.

neimanmarcus.com

Socks/Slippers. Keeping feet warm and comfortable is a priority.  Slippers are cozy. Great for keeping the warmth in your feet when simply lounging around, or working on the computer for hours on end. Socks can go along with slippers, or if you, or the person you're buying for doesn't like slippers, socks are great. Both are a necessity that keep your feet from feeling the chill. A great option are the UGG  sheepskin slippers for men and women. The UGG 'Ansley' Slippers pictured above, are great for indoor and outdoor wear.

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Technology. New phone, camera, tablet, computer, or maybe just something to go with it. The iPad mini with Retina Display is ideal for transporting in handbags for girls and women, and holding for those with smaller hands. Some great accessories include: a case for the iPad (Logitech Keyboard Folio Case), and an indestructible case protector (OtterBox Case). Whatever you're getting, now is the time to get it, while the stock and sales are good.

 

*Extra Stocking Stuffer

Breath Mint/Pepper Spray. Everyone should have one of these with them at all times, because good breath is a must for everyone no matter what season it is.

 

 

For Her



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Jewelry. A lovely pearl, gold, or diamond necklace. Simple pearl, gold, or diamond studs. All  are classics that in every girl's wardrobe. Neiman Marcus has these Majorica Pearl Stud Earrings in a variety of sizes.

saksfifthavenue.com

Beauty. Whether it's skin care,  makeup,  nails, or hair, something beauty related is usually a good idea. Some great and well-loved products are the essential eyeshadow palette (Urban Decay Naked), and the famous deep cleanser to remove makeup that ordinary methods leave behind. Everyone is raving about the Clarisonic Mia 2 Skin Cleansing System, wondering why they didn't get one sooner.

saksfifthavenue.com

Fragrance. If you know for a certainty what fragrance the person on your list wants, then go ahead and get it. The Dior 'Miss Dior' Eau de Parfum is a lovely scent. If you know she likes perfume (but isn’t too particular about her perfume) get a perfume sample set, such as  The Finishing Touch Fragrance Sample Collection from ULTA.

 

 

For Him

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Watch. A watch is a great accessory, all you have to do is turn your wrist to check the time. It keeps you punctual,  looks sharp, sophisticated, and professional. There are many options to choose from. However, you can never go wrong with the timeless sophistication of a clean face with a leather strap. A great option is this classic and elegant HUGO BOSS Round Leather Strap Watch.

roots.com

Wallet. A nice leather wallet is all most men need. Nonetheless, if you are shopping for someone who needs one, it will be the perfect gift.  Roots is known for their quality leather goods. This Slim Prince Leather Wallet is a good choice, if looking for a place to put coins.

nordstrom.com

Tie. Without this accessory, a man doesn't look as professional, and business ready, so a good tie is always a great choice. Every man needs to own at least one. At this time of the year everything, including an HUGO BOSS Silk Tie are on sale.

 

 

For Pets

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Heated Bed. Soft, warm, and cozy. Your furry friend will be warm and comfortable  just like you this holiday! This K&H Self Warming Lounge Sleeper would be great for those with larger dogs.


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Boots. For dogs that are susceptible to getting snow and ice trapped in their paws, checkout Pawz Natural Rubber Dog Boots. As an added bonus, their paws will stay clean!


amazon.com

Treats. Whether it be some biscuits, Real Meat Beef Jerky Dog Treats, or a bone to chew, give them something that they love. There's nothing like seeing the look on their face, and their tail wagging in anticipation,  to see what they got.

 

 

For Coworkers & Acquaintances


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Business Card Case. Everyone seems to have business cards these days, and even even if they don't, one of these are great for holding other people's business cards,  or all those loyalty store cards, so they are always on hand. Whether you choose a leather one, or something a little different, such as the Tiffany 1837 Stainless Steel Business Card Case, it's something everyone can use.

moleskine.com

Journal. Someone doesn't have to be a "Dear Diary" type of person to use a journal. They are great for taking notes, writing lists, a travel log, keeping track off all those usernames and passwords for websites they visit, brainstorming ideas, there are numerous possibilities. Besides, you never know when your going to need some paper to jot something down at home. The Moleskine Classic Notebook is a great option.

tiffany.com

Pen. To go along the idea of a  journal, I had to include a nice pen. Having a pen is a good thing to have when leaving the house , because the time will come one day when you need one. An elegant Tiffany T-Clip Ballpoint Pen is the type of pen that is gift-worthy for such an occasion.

 

 

Keep it Simple


 nordstrom.com

Gift Card. If you know they enjoy a coffee shop, or store,  a gift card is a great gift they will  use. If you don't know where they shop, you can give them  a gift card to a mall, or department store. Gift cards come in a wide price range (usually $25 and  up), so it's accessible for many budgets.

Most importantly, get a gift that applies to the person you're gifting. If they are a frequent traveler, or are going on a trip soon, and you know they need a certain something, whether more expensive (luggage), or less expensive (RFID passport and ID wallet), get them something they will use. The saying "it's the thought that counts" is true, put some thought into what they would like, and need. A gift is more about giving someone something that shows you thought about them, and understand their interests, tastes, and needs, than about getting them something, just to get them something. Or, getting them something that you like, but they would not want, or use. Shopping involves money, time, and energy. Invest those precious resources by making the right investment for each recipient in your life, by considering whether these gift ideas are right for them, or if you need to find something else that will be better suited to them. After all, this gift guide is only a guide of ideas. There are many more possible ideas, and a guide is only a suggestion of what to do, not a rule.

With all that said, holiday shopping is an enjoyable experience, if you let it be. The next time you go shopping, open you mind to the possibilities. Take in the ambiance of the festive displays, decorations, and gift options out there.  Pretend you are shopping in a new city, excited for the experience, the possibilities, and what you will find.

Happy shopping!

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